We agree that a diverse pool of applicants is critical to the success of the redistricting commission. That is why the League of Women Voters of California and many other organizations and individuals are doing extensive outreach to inform Californians of all backgrounds about the opportunity to apply to the Citizens Redistricting Commission created under Proposition 11.

In the coming weeks we expect the applicant pool to grow and to increase in diversity as more people become aware that they can apply to help draw legislative and Board of Equalization districts to ensure that we have fair elections and can hold our elected officials accountable. Voters passed Prop. 11 to effect positive change, and we believe Californians from all walks of life will be highly motivated to participate in this process.

In addition, it is important to note that Prop. 11 requires that the 14-member Citizens Redistricting Commission reflect the diversity of California. There are several safeguards to ensure that the pools of applicants who make it through each step of the selection process reflect California’s diversity. We encourage all Californians to visit www.WeDrawTheLines.ca.gov to learn about applying for the commission.

Janis R. Hirohama
President
League of Women Voters of California
1107 Ninth Street, Suite 300
Sacramento, CA 95814
916-442-7215

Subject

Response to Editorial Published in San Jose Mercury News

Sent to

Editor, San Jose Mercury News

In response to

Editorial, "State redistricting commission needs a more diverse pool of volunteers" (1/19/10)